At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting exhibitions at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and engage young audiences.
- Company: Join BCP Council, a forward-thinking organisation committed to inclusivity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, clear career progression, and flexible part-time hours.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the arts while developing your skills and creativity.
- Qualifications: Experience in co-curation, event planning, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 32061 - 32061 £ per year.
Starting salary for this role is £32,061 (pro rata for part-time colleagues). This role sits within a well defined pay band, offering clear progression as you grow your career at BCP. Fixed term contract July 2026 - June 2029, 2 days per week (14.8 hours / 0.4 FTE).
Role Purpose
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Engagement Officer to lead the development and delivery of two co‑produced exhibitions at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, aimed at attracting new audiences.
Main Responsibilities
- Recruit a cohort of young people to participate in the project.
- Set up and deliver sessions for the cohort to enable participation in co‑curation of the exhibitions.
- Develop relationships with relevant stakeholders, working in partnership with the permanent team at the Russell-Cotes and representatives of partner venues.
- Commission artists, experts and creatives to collaborate with the cohort on exhibition content and responses.
- Collaborate with the Russell‑Cotes Collections Team to create site‑specific interpretation.
- Support audience engagement through the development of a vibrant events programme and site‑specific interpretation.
- Produce resources to support child and young people’s engagement with the exhibition.
- Create a launch event, blog posts and social media content.
- Monitor budget spend on the project with Russell‑Cotes staff.
- Carry out evaluation, feedback and reporting in line with the funder’s requirements.
The Ideal Candidate
- Experience of co‑curation, co‑production, co‑design, and/or audience consultation, ideally within a gallery or museum setting.
- Experience of developing and delivering exhibitions.
- Experience of planning, developing and delivering events, talks and workshops.
- Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
- Strong writing skills, with the ability to communicate ideas clearly and accessibly.
- Ability to persuade and communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders.
- A commitment to making museums and galleries and their collections accessible to a wider audience.
- Experience of creating digital outputs such as digital interpretation, social media content, talks & tours and blog posts.
Desirable
- Experience in a curatorial, exhibitions or collections department, ideally within a gallery, museum or historic setting.
- Knowledge and experience of the registrar process including loan administration and transport coordination.
- Practical understanding of object handling and exhibition installation.
Other Requirements
This role will periodically require some working in the evenings and weekends.
Other Information
The post holder will report to the Museum Manager. The post is based onsite at the Russell‑Cotes Art Gallery and Museum.
Eligibility
Please note, this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship and we can only consider applicants with an existing right to work in the UK.
EEO Statement
At BCP Council, inclusion is more than a promise – it’s how we work. We’re committed to providing a fully inclusive recruitment process, ensuring every candidate and colleague has the support and reasonable adjustments they need to thrive. If you require any reasonable adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know when you apply or contact us directly. We’re here to help.
Engagement Officer - 14.8 hours per week - 3 Year Fixed Term Contract in Bournemouth employer: Bournemouth Borough Council
BCP Council is an exceptional employer that values inclusivity and professional growth, offering a supportive work culture where creativity thrives. As an Engagement Officer at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, you will have the opportunity to lead innovative projects that engage diverse audiences while benefiting from a clear progression path within a well-defined pay band. With a commitment to making art accessible and a focus on collaboration, BCP Council provides a meaningful and rewarding environment for those passionate about community engagement and the arts.
Contact Details:
Bournemouth Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engagement Officer - 14.8 hours per week - 3 Year Fixed Term Contract in Bournemouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a personal website showcasing your past projects, especially those related to co-curation and audience engagement. This will give employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out directly to galleries and museums you admire, express your interest, and ask if they have any upcoming opportunities. It shows initiative and enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find roles that match your skills and interests. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on new opportunities as they come up.
We think you need these skills to ace Engagement Officer - 14.8 hours per week - 3 Year Fixed Term Contract in Bournemouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in co-curation and audience engagement. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Engagement Officer, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects you've worked on!
Show Off Your Writing Skills:Since strong writing skills are key for this role, ensure your application is clear and engaging. Use accessible language and structure your thoughts well. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can communicate ideas effectively!
Highlight Your Organisational Skills:This role involves managing multiple deadlines and projects, so be sure to mention any relevant experience you have in planning and delivering events or exhibitions. We love seeing candidates who can juggle tasks like pros!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bournemouth Borough Council
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, research the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum. Understand their mission, current exhibitions, and community engagement efforts. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your experience in co-curation, audience consultation, and event planning. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your achievements.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
As an Engagement Officer, your passion for making art accessible is key. During the interview, express your enthusiasm for engaging diverse audiences and share ideas on how you would attract new visitors to the exhibitions.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the gallery's future projects. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the position aligns with your career goals. For example, ask about potential collaborations or upcoming exhibitions.
